Central Wisconsin is bracing for multiple rounds of heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms through Saturday evening. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Milwaukee/Sullivan, areas north and west of Madison have the highest chance of exceeding two inches of rain, with slow-moving thunderstorms likely to cause flash flooding and river flooding.
The NWS has indicated that rainfall rates could reach 1-2 inches per hour, with a majority of the rainfall occurring this evening and overnight. Flash flooding, road washouts, and fast-moving rivers are significant concerns.
In addition to the heavy rainfall, a line of strong to severe thunderstorms is expected to develop Saturday afternoon as a cold front pushes across southern Wisconsin. According to the NWS, the storms will begin forming early Saturday afternoon and are projected to exit Lake Michigan by late evening. These storms may produce damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes.
Residents in central Wisconsin are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and take necessary precautions. The NWS recommends having an emergency plan in place and being prepared for potential power outages and hazardous travel conditions.